Inverewe (Inverewe Garden & Estate)

Visitors can explore the network of paths around the garden, with two longer trails that wind around the estate. A wildlife blind overlooks Loch Ewe and is a great spot to look for wildlife, including coastal birds, otters, and seals, while wildlife boat tours cruise around the loch's shores. Visitors can also (seasonally) explore Inverewe House, which houses an interactive museum, and admire artwork at Sawyer Gallery. You can stay overnight at the Garden Lodge.

• Inverewe is ideal for nature and wildlife lovers.

• There is a fee to access Inverewe, though National Trust members can enter for free.

• The wildlife boat tour must be booked in advance.

• The complex is largely wheelchair and mobility scooter accessible, though some areas are not. Wheelchairs and scooters are available.

• Dogs are allowed in the garden during operational hours but must be kept on a short leash and stay on designated trails.

Inverewe is located 75 miles (120 kilometers) west of Inverness, and 6 miles (10 kilometers) northeast of Gairloch. Parking is available outside the visitor center. The Westerbus between Inverness and Gariloch also stops outside the garden. Inverewe is also accessible by boat, though visitors need to call ahead to secure a berth.

The garden and estate is open daily, year-round from midmorning to afternoon, while the visitor center, shop, and café are open from early April through October, from midmorning to afternoon. Inverewe House is open from the end of June through October with roughly the same hours. The complex is busiest between 11am and 3pm; visit before 11am for a quieter experience. Wildlife boat trips run in summer.

The effects of the Gulf Stream meeting the Highlands is the reason the garden is able to sustain so many exotic species, despite its location in northern Scotland. Highlights include towering California redwoods, rare Wollemi pines, Himalayan blue poppies and a wide range of rhododendrons, with some in bloom every day of the year. The estate is also home to Scotland’s Big 5 wildlife of red squirrel, red deer, otter, seal, and golden eagle.